Pakistan cricketers had a big disappointment as all 50 of their players—45 men and 5 women—remained unsold in The Hundred draft. The snub occurs during keen competition, denying notable names such as Imad Wasim, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Hasan Ali, and Naseem Shah a contract.

In the women’s category, Aliya Riaz, Fatima Sana, Yusra Amir, Iram Javed, and Jaweria Rauf went unsold. Afghanistan’s Noor Ahmad and New Zealand’s Michael Bracewell bagged the most lucrative deals, with Noor being picked by Manchester Originals and Bracewell by Southern Brave. David Warner, the former Australia opener, was bought by London Spirit.

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Pakistan Cricket Board Reduces Domestic Match Fees by 90%

Adding to the disappointment, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has significantly reduced match fees for domestic players, sparking doubts over the board’s financial health.

For the upcoming National T20 Championship, which starts on March 14, the PCB has reduced match fees from 100,000 rupees per match to a mere 10,000 rupees, while reserve players will be paid only 5,000 rupees per match.

The severe salary reduction has created frustration among the players, and sources have reported that the PCB is also looking to cut domestic cricket development expenses.

Cut Facilities & Unpaid Dues

Sources have reported that Abdullah Khurrum Niazi, the domestic cricket chief, has been reducing expenditures for domestic players for the last few months.

The players who were initially being accommodated at five-star and four-star hotels are now being accommodated for less. The air travel too has been curtailed for them apart from fees,” an insider disclosed.

The arrears of last season too have not been paid to players and umpires. The PCB has also not brought about the yearly increase in pensions of retired Test cricketers as required under board policy.

Financial Mismanagement?

Even as there are drastic cuts in the budget, PCB officials are still drawing fat salaries. A source highlighted the irony:

“The match fees of the players are being cut, but the officials who are taking these decisions are receiving monthly salaries in millions.”

Meanwhile, the PCB is splurging huge amounts on national selectors and mentors for five teams in the just-concluded Champions Cup.

With the snub in The Hundred draft and domestic pay cuts, Pakistan cricket faces a deepening crisis, raising serious questions about financial priorities and player welfare.